For those who are unaware, it is possible to go directly to a physical therapist for your injury. This is called Direct Access. With many insurance plans (except Medicare), there is no need to see your PCP 1st for that ankle sprain or new onset of back pain. A...
Back Pain
What is this BUZZ around Trigger Point Dry Needling? Will it help my pain?
To answer the 2nd question, we must 1st understand what it is, what it does, and who it may help. Trigger Point Dry Needling is a treatment using tiny needles inserted into sore, tight, tense, painful muscles in an effort to relieve those areas of pain. These painful...
Pilates for Back Pain
Pilates? Yes, Pilates has been shown to be excellent for those with back issues. If you search the literature you will find quite a number (well over a hundred by now) articles discussing the benefits of Pilates for back pain. For those who are unfamiliar with...
The 5 Keys to Safe Lifting (Even if You Have Back Pain)
When someone has back pain, simple tasks such as bending to tie ones shoes or even picking up a bag of groceries can be difficult (or painful). Imagine telling a new mom or mom/grandma with a toddler to not lift them up. Regardless of how much pain they may have they...
A Bulging or Herniated Disc Does NOT Mean Surgery is Necessary
Contrary to the belief of many, having a bulging or herniated disc does not mean surgery is necessary. But how can that be when many say otherwise? My surgeon, my neighbor, the internet all say surgery is necessary for this issue. Here is the deal…everything you...
“Degenerative Disk Disease” Is Just Normal Aging
Many of you out there with back pain may have been told you have “degenerative disk disease“. It is explained to you as a bad thing….like you are doomed to pain and an inability to function. What you SHOULD KNOW is that if you live beyond 35 yrs of...
What is Sciatica?
Sciatica is a general terms used to describe when a person has any kind of back and leg pain. Sciatica is derived from the Sciatic nerve, which is formed by several nerves together running down the back aspect of the leg. It then splits just behind the knee into other...
Dangers of Spring Cleaning
Spring is officially here and it is just about time to head outside for the proverbial spring cleaning. Did you know spring cleaning can lead to many different injury issues? So, as you prepare for the clean up, lets take a moment to learn how to accomplish the task...
Shoveling Snow 101
It is winter so snow will eventually be on the ground. This means it is time to take care of yourself and avoid those snow shoveling injuries. To begin with, make sure to have good footwear. Slipping on snow/ice is hazardous to your health, and a common issue leading...
Why Do You Treat Your Car Better Than Your Body?
For nearly a decade now I have pondered the following question. Why do people take better care of their car than themselves? Your car gets treated to oil changes, tire rotations, routine maintenance all on a schedule. Yet a majority of people DO NOT care for their...
